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Mashable is a leading source for news, information & resources for the Connected Generation. Mashable reports on the importance of digital innovation and how it empowers and inspires people around the world. Mashable's 25 million monthly unique visitors and 10 million social media followers have become one of the most engaged online news communities. Founded in 2005, Mashable is headquartered in New York City with an office in San Francisco.
Updated: 10 min 58 sec ago

Hurdle hints and answers for November 15

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 04:58

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

Flowing water making its way toward the sea.

SEE ALSO: Mini crossword answers for November 15 Hurdle Word 1 answer

RIVER

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A handle that switches something on or off.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for November 15 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

LEVER

Hurdle Word 3 hint

What you call a baby pigeon.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 15 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for November 15 Hurdle Word 3 answer

SQUAB

Hurdle Word 4 hint

A color or a flag.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for November 15 Hurdle Word 4 answer

BEIGE

Final Hurdle hint

To destroy with pressure.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

CRUSH

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 15

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 04:42

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for Nov. 11's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for November 15 Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

  • Yellow: Fewest strokes win

  • Green: Football players

  • Blue: Soccer pros

  • Purple: Cool sport terms

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

  • Yellow - Golfing outcomes

  • Green - NFL teams in singular form

  • Blue - NWSL teams

  • Purple - Curling lingo

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #53 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today
  • Golfing outcomes: BIRDIE, BOGEY, EAGLE, PAR

  • NFL teams in singular form: COMMANDER, GIANT, JET, STEELER

  • NWSL teams: COURAGE, REIGN, SPIRIT, WAVE

  • Curling lingo: BONSPIEL, HOUSE, SHEET, STONE

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.

NYT's The Mini crossword answers, hints for November 15, 2024

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 04:34

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Friday, November 15, 2024:

AcrossWhat a vacuum cleaner sucks
  • The answer is Dirt.

"Clam up" or "chicken out"
  • The answer is Idiom.

Rigatoni, radiatori or rotelle
  • The answer is Pasta.

Trim wool from
  • The answer is Shear.

"If I had ___ known!"
  • The answer is Only.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 15 DownQuick jumps in the pool
  • The answer is Dips.

State where much of the Snake River flows
  • The answer is Idaho.

Up and out of bed
  • The answer is Risen.

Number at the bottom of a receipt
  • The answer is Total.

American Impressionist painter Cassatt
  • The answer is Mary.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.

Worst passwords of 2024 prove we still suck at digital security

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 04:27

NordPass has released its sixth annual study on the 200 most common passwords in the world. Unfortunately, it seems as though the sixth time is still not the charm, with the list still topped by many of the same easily-cracked suspects as last year.

"After analyzing 6 years' worth of data, we can say there hasn't been much improvement in people's password habits," wrote NordPass. It's easy to imagine an air of resignation surrounding that statement.

SEE ALSO: The best password managers for all your online accounts

This year NordPass' study was conducted in collaboration with NordStellar, and used a 2.5TB database of information gathered from publicly available resources — including some found on the dark web. Passwords used had been exposed via malware or in data leaks, with the complete study using information from people across 44 countries.

According to NordPass' research, 2024's top 10 most used passwords globally are:

  1. 123456

  2. 123456789

  3. 12345678

  4. password

  5. qwerty123

  6. qwerty1

  7. 111111

  8. 12345

  9. secret

  10. 123123

NordPass estimates that it would take a hacker less than one second to crack each of these passwords. This is the fifth year that "123456" has topped the list, having only been beaten out once since NordPass began its annual study.

The list looks slightly different when strictly looking at passwords for U.S. accounts, though there's still a lot of overlap. While the global list favours number-based passwords, presumably as they're used across different languages, 2024's 10 most popular passwords in the U.S. has more English-based entries:

  1. secret

  2. 123456

  3. password

  4. qwerty123

  5. qwerty1

  6. 123456789

  7. password1

  8. 12345678

  9. 12345

  10. abc123

These too would take less than a second to crack.

Corporate America's most popular password is 'password'

This year, NordPass also made a separate list of passwords used for corporate accounts. Most passwords used in the study were leaked alongside a corresponding email address, enabling NordPass to distinguish between work and personal accounts by looking at the domain name.

Sadly, it looks as though those hours of mandatory corporate privacy training we've all endured have borne little fruit, with people still using the same or similar weak passwords as they do in their private lives.

The 10 most popular passwords people used at work in 2024 are:

  1. 123456 

  2. 123456789

  3. 12345678

  4. secret

  5. password

  6. qwerty123

  7. qwerty1

  8. 111111

  9. 123123

  10. 1234567890

In the U.S. specifically, 2024's most popular corporate passwords are:

  1. password

  2. 123456

  3. qwerty123

  4. qwerty1

  5. aaron431

  6. password1

  7. welcome

  8. 12345678

  9. Password1

  10. abc123

"aaron431" is an unusual outlier compared to its compatriots, having no blatantly obvious rhyme or reason. However, it has been recognised as a popular password in several industries for years. Some have speculated that "aaron431" is the default password for a widely used program, and that people just haven't bothered changing it. NordPass estimates it would take about five minutes for a hacker to crack it.

If you're guilty of using any of these popular passwords, now would be a good time to consider changing them and getting a password manager. Even if you don't use any of the entries on these lists, a password manager will still go a long way in helping you keep your passwords strong and your data secure.

Treat yourself to the Amazon Fire Stick 4K at its lowest-ever price

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 04:25

SAVE $27: As of Nov. 15, the Amazon Fire Stick 4K is on sale at Amazon for $32.99, a savings of 45% and the lowest it has ever been priced.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire Stick 4K $32.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $27.00 Get Deal

Amazon's Black Friday event is not officially here yet, but the deals have already started. You can find discounts already kicking off on a wide range of Amazon's products, including the beloved Fire TV Stick. The Fire TV Stick is a streaming device that plugs into your TV (or laptop) and lets you access platforms including Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and more. It comes with a remote with Alexa built-in, helping you turn any TV into a smart TV.

SEE ALSO: Walmart Black Friday ad: The best deals you can buy online

As of Nov. 15, you can buy the Amazon Fire Stick 4K for its lowest-ever price, now just $32.99.

You don't need to worry about a complicated setup, these handy remotes are so simple to use. Really, anyone can do it. Just pop the device into your TV's HDMI port, and that's it. You have instant access to a range of streaming platforms as well as many live channels.

And with the Fire Stick 4K, you can enjoy stunning 4K Ultra HD visuals with advanced HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+. This model also boasts a much more powerful processor and enhanced Dolby Atmos support than its predecessor, ensuring a smoother performance and better quality sound.

This is a limited-time only deal at Amazon, so don't miss out.

Speed up your WiFi with this Amazon eero 6+ deal

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 04:22

SAVE $105: As of Nov. 15, the Amazon eero 6+ router is on sale at Amazon for $194.99. That's a 35% savings on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon eero 6+ $194.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $105.00 Get Deal

Black Friday sales have already started at a range of retailers, including Walmart and Best Buy, and while Amazon's Black Friday deals don't officially begin until Nov. 21, there's already a great selection of active discounts that are worth your attention.

That's including this great deal on the Amazon eero 6+ router system. As of Nov. 15, this product is reduced to $194.99, saving you 35%. This discount is specific to the three-pack option, but you can find deals across all bundles.

The eero 6+ is an exceptional router system that offers gigabit wifi speeds at an affordable price. It is backward-compatible with older eero devices, making it flexible for all home setups.

It boasts Wi-Fi 6 technology and an extra boost from the 160 MHz radio channel, so the eero 6+ ensures fast and reliable connectivity for the entire household. The TrueMesh technology reduces dead spots and dropped signals, keeping your smart home running smoothly even when you’re away.

And if you're worried about the setup, there's no need. The system is super easy to set up and can be done in minutes by using the eero app.

This is only a limited-time deal at Amazon, however, so move fast.

Stuff your Kindle with these free open door romance books

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 04:20

FREE E-BOOKS: On Nov. 15, hundreds of e-books are completely free on Amazon. Shop these open door romance books for free today.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Free E-Books on Stuff Your Kindle Day Get Deal

If the sound of free books is like music to your ears, then you'll love Stuff Your Kindle Day. While it may sound too good to be true, there's no catch, we promise.

Nov. 15 is a day when thousands of e-books at Amazon are reduced to the low, low price of $0. There are a variety of subgenres on offer, but romance is at the forefront of this author-driven event. This latest Stuff Your Kindle Day is a romance-focused free book blast that features "cinnamon roll main male characters," a term to describe sweet and kind male leads.

Hosted by Alpharoll, you can expect all genres and heat levels of romance to be featured, and organized by heat level and subgenre.

SEE ALSO: Amazon Kindle vs. Kindle Paperwhite: Which one is for you?

And if you are a real fan of open door romance novels, there are plenty of books for you to download. Overwhelmed? Here's a pick of some of the best books you can download for free.

Best open door romance to shop during Stuff Your Kindle Day

Book lovers, download free closed door and fade to black novels on Stuff Your Kindle Day

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 04:18

FREE E-BOOKS: On Nov. 15, hundreds of e-books are completely free on Amazon. Shop these closed door and fade to black books for free today.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Free E-Books on Stuff Your Kindle Day Get Deal

For book lovers, there is no better holiday than Stuff Your Kindle Day. While it may sound too good to be true, there's no catch.

Nov. 15 is a day when thousands of e-books at Amazon are completely free. Yes, free. There are a variety of genres on offer, but romance is at the forefront of this author-driven event. This latest Stuff Your Kindle Day is a romance-focused free book blast that features "cinnamon roll main male characters."

Hosted by Alpharoll, you can expect all genres and heat levels of romance to be featured, and organized by heat level and subgenre.

SEE ALSO: Amazon Kindle vs. Kindle Paperwhite: Which one is for you?

And if you are a real fan of closed-door and fade-to-black novels, there are plenty of books for you to download. Overwhelmed? Here's a pick of some of the best books you can download for free.

Best closed door and fade to black to shop during Stuff Your Kindle Day

Black Friday TV deal: Save $250 on the 75-inch Hisense QD6 QLED 4K TV at Best Buy

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 04:14

SAVE $250: The Hisense QD6 Series 75-inch QLED 4K UHD Smart Google TV (2024) is just $449.99 at Best Buy as of Nov. 15. This budget-friendly big screen is perfect for upgrading your home entertainment setup.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense QD6 Series 75-inch QLED 4K UHD $449.99 at Best Buy
$699.99 Save $250.00 Get Deal

If your TV feels like a postage stamp compared to today’s screens, it’s time to upgrade. Enter the Hisense QD6 Series — a 75-inch QLED 4K Smart TV that delivers eye-popping visuals without emptying your wallet. Thanks to a $250 Black Friday discount at Best Buy, this beast is just $449.99.

What makes the QD6 worth it? For starters, its sheer size — 75 inches of cinematic glory that will make you wonder how you ever lived with less. Pair that with QLED Quantum Dot technology, and you’ve got a screen that makes every color pop, offering over a billion shades for vibrant sunsets, lifelike skin tones, and oceans so blue you’ll want to dive in.

SEE ALSO: Apple's Phone SE 4 will surprise with new display and top cameras, report claims

But this TV isn’t just a pretty face. Gamers will appreciate Game Mode Plus, a combo of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode to keep gameplay smooth and lag-free. Whether you’re fragging enemies or exploring fantasy worlds, the 4K AI Upscaler ensures everything looks crisp—even older games or content that’s less than 4K.

Smart features? This Hisense is practically a genius. Powered by Google TV, it organizes your apps, subscriptions, and live TV into one easy-to-navigate interface. Still trying to decide what to watch? Google TV will recommend options tailored to your tastes. And the voice remote? It’s like having a personal assistant who never takes a day off.

Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Audio round out the cinematic experience, turning every movie night into a theater-quality event. At $449.99, the Hisense QD6 gives you a lot of bang for your buck. Whether planning movie marathons or gaming binges, this Black Friday deal is a steal. Snap it up now because deals this good don’t last long (unlike your popcorn).

Best Buy Black Friday deal: Snag the ASUS ROG Ally for $499.99

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 04:10

SAVE $150: The ASUS ROG Ally gaming handheld with AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, 512GB storage, and 7-inch FHD 120Hz display is just $499.99 at Best Buy as of Nov. 15.

Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS ASUS ROG Ally AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme $599.99 at Best Buy
$649.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Black Friday Doorbuster deals are here, and Best Buy has just leveled up your gaming setup with a $150 discount on the ASUS ROG Ally. This portable powerhouse is now $499.99 — its lowest price yet. If you’re looking for a gaming device that can do it all, this is your chance to grab one before they’re gone.

The ROG Ally is more than just a gaming console; it’s a gaming PC you can take anywhere. Powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, it packs 8.6 teraflops of computational power (yes, you read that right) into a sleek handheld design. Its 7-inch 1080p touchscreen with a buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync technology ensures visuals are crisp, fluid, and completely tear-free.

SEE ALSO: Apple's Phone SE 4 will surprise with new display and top cameras, report claims

But the ROG Ally isn’t just for solo handheld play. Hook it up to a TV, connect some controllers, and you’ve got a multiplayer console for gaming nights with friends. Want to take things even further? Pair it with the ROG XG Mobile eGPU to turn it into a full-fledged gaming PC, complete with support for a keyboard, mouse, monitor, and more.

Other highlights include a generous 512GB SSD for lightning-fast load times (and plenty of storage for your game library), 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and quick-charge technology that gets you from 0% to 50% battery in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re on the couch, on the road, or in the middle of a gaming marathon, the ROG Ally keeps up with your pace.

With access to games across platforms like Steam, Xbox Game Pass, Epic Games, and even Android apps, the ASUS ROG Ally is the ultimate all-in-one solution for gamers who want it all. Best Buy’s Black Friday price makes this an unbeatable deal — but don’t wait too long, or it might disappear faster than your last online match.

This Best Buy Black Friday doorbuster deal will save you $200 on the LG OLED B4 TV

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 04:06

SAVE $200: The 48-inch LG OLED B4 Series 4K Smart TV (2024) is now $599.99 at Best Buy as of Nov. 15. This Black Friday Doorbuster won’t last long.

Opens in a new window Credit: LG 48-inch LG OLED B4 Series 4K Smart TV (2024) $599.99 at Best Buy
$799.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal

It’s time to upgrade your home entertainment setup with a deal to make your living room the ultimate viewing destination. The 48-inch LG OLED B4 Series 4K Smart TV is now just $599.99 at Best Buy, a $200 discount for their Black Friday Doorbuster sale. That’s serious value for a TV packed with features movie buffs and gamers alike will love.

What sets this Black Friday TV apart? First, let’s talk about those OLED visuals. With over 8.3 million self-lit pixels, the LG OLED B4 delivers perfect black levels and vivid, lifelike colors. Whether binge-watching your favorite series or diving into the latest blockbuster, the α8 AI Processor ensures every frame looks (and sounds) unique by automatically optimizing picture and audio based on your content.

SEE ALSO: Apple's Phone SE 4 will surprise with new display and top cameras, report claims

Cinephiles will appreciate features like Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and FILMMAKER MODE, bringing the cinema experience properly to your couch. Imagine hearing every whisper of dialogue and feeling every explosion without leaving your house (or changing out of sweatpants).

But that’s not all. Gamers are in for a treat, too. This LG OLED TV has NVIDIA G-Sync, AMD FreeSync Premium, and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for ultra-smooth gameplay. With four HDMI 2.1 ports, you’ll have plenty of room to connect your console, streaming devices, and more. And thanks to the LG Game Dashboard and Game Optimizer, your gaming controls are always within reach.

The smart features are just as impressive. Powered by LG webOS 24, the B4 makes streaming a breeze with easy app organization and instant access to over 300 free LG Channels. Plus, LG promises up to five years of software updates, so your TV stays fresh well into the future.

Black Friday Doorbusters like this are meant to disappear quickly, and with a feature set like this, the LG OLED B4 won’t stick around for long. Don’t miss your chance to snag a premium TV at a budget-friendly price.

Save $200 this Black Friday Doorbuster on the MacBook Air M2 chip at Best Buy

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 04:02

SAVE $200: The 13-inch Apple MacBook Air with the M2 chip, 16GB memory, and 256GB SSD is now $1,099 at Best Buy as of Nov. 15. This Black Friday Doorbuster won’t last long.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 13-inch Apple MacBook Air with the M2 chip $749.00 at Best Buy
$999.00 Save $250.00 Get Deal

It’s officially Black Friday season. Best Buy has unleashed its second wave of Doorbuster deals — including a tempting $200 discount on Apple’s 13-inch MacBook Air with the M2 chip. Priced at $1,099 (down from $1,299), this deal is a head-turner for anyone in the market for a premium laptop that delivers both style and performance.

Black Friday Doorbusters are all about grabbing attention, and this deal on the MacBook Air does precisely that. Apple rarely discounts its tech, so a $200 price drop is like spotting a unicorn — magical, rare, and likely to vanish fast.

SEE ALSO: Apple's Phone SE 4 will surprise with new display and top cameras, report claims

The MacBook Air M2 is the total package for work, play, and everything in between. Weighing just 2.7 pounds, its fanless design keeps things whisper-quiet. At the same time, the M2 chip ensures lightning-fast performance for editing videos, streaming shows, or juggling spreadsheets. Add a stunning 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display (hello, 500 nits of brightness) and up to 18 hours of battery life, and you’ve got a laptop that can keep up with even the busiest days.

This model also boasts a 1080p FaceTime HD camera, Spatial Audio speakers for immersive sound, and the return of the beloved MagSafe charger (no more accidental cord-yanks sending your laptop flying). Plus, you’ll have Apple’s latest features and security updates with macOS Sequoia.

Black Friday Doorbusters like this one are designed to create FOMO for a good reason. Once supplies run out, the deal is gone for good. If this MacBook Air is calling your name, don’t wait — snap it up while you can.

Fast-track your IT journey with CompTIA certification courses for just £2.63 each

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Gain lifetime access to 15 CompTIA certification courses on sale for just £39.46 (reg. £461.90). Unlock access to over 260 hours of IT training covering key certifications like A+, Network+, Security+, and more.

Opens in a new window Credit: IDUNOVA The Complete 2024 CompTIA Course Super Bundle by IDUNOVA £39.46 at the Mashable Shop
£461.90 Save £422.44 Get Deal

When you sign up for The Complete 2024 CompTIA Course Super Bundle, you'll get access to 15 certification prep courses for the low price of £39.46 — that's just £2.63 per course.

So, what does this CompTIA course bundle include?

It includes 15 CompTIA exam prep courses with over 260 hours of content, covering certifications such as A+, Network+, Security+, and Cloud+. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to upgrade your skills, this bundle has you covered.

For a limited time at the Mashable Shop, you can sign up for the discounted price of £39.46 (reg. £461.90).

Who should consider taking these courses?

This bundle is ideal for anyone looking to break into the IT field or professionals aiming to expand their expertise. Roles like IT support specialist, network administrator, and security analyst are some potential career paths.

Courses like CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ and A+ are designed for beginners and cover essential skills like hardware setup, basic troubleshooting, and network configuration.

How long will you have access to the courses?

You’ll get lifetime access to all 15 courses, so you can revise at your own pace. Plus, you can revisit any lessons or materials whenever you need a refresher.

What can you do with the knowledge in this bundle?

The certifications will equip you to manage IT systems, troubleshoot networks, set up secure servers, and even conduct penetration testing. You’ll be more prepared for roles in IT support, security, and network administration.

Do you need any previous experience to take these courses?

While some courses are designed for beginners, like the IT Fundamentals+, others like Security+ and PenTest+ are more advanced and may require foundational IT knowledge.

Get lifetime access to this comprehensive CompTIA course bundle for £39.46 (reg. £461.90) and kickstart your IT career.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Stock up on hundreds of free books on the latest Stuff Your Kindle Day

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 00:00

GET FREE E-BOOKS: The latest Stuff Your Kindle Day takes place on Nov. 15. Pick up hundreds of romance e-books for free.

Stuff Your Kindle Day is back once again, providing an amazing opportunity to pick up hundreds of books for absolutely nothing. We know that sounds too good to be true, but there really isn't a catch in this case.

Stuff Your Kindle Day is an author-organized event that drops the price of hundreds of romance e-books to absolutely nothing. And the books that you choose to download are yours to keep.

SEE ALSO: The Kindle Paperwhite made me enjoy reading books again

This latest Stuff Your Kindle Day is a romance-focused free book blast that features "cinnamon roll main male characters." Hosted by Alpharoll, all genres and heat levels of romance are featured and organized by heat level and subgenre for maximum convenience.

Want to make the most of Stuff Your Kindle Day? We've read ahead and lined up everything you need to know about this latest event.

When is Stuff Your Kindle Day?

Bookworms have been treated to a number of Stuff Your Kindle Days this year. The last event took place on Oct. 24, with the Cozy Mystery Book Club offering cozy mystery e-books for absolutely nothing. That was fun, but now it's time to turn back to romance.

The latest Stuff Your Kindle Day is hosted by Alpharoll, and takes place on Nov. 15. The best way to find out about dates hosted by Alpharoll is to join the free reader alert email service.

Who can take part in Stuff Your Kindle Day?

The beauty of this event is that anyone can participate in Stuff Your Kindle Day.

You don't even need to own a Kindle to get involved. Kindle, Kobo, and Nook readers can download these free e-books. You can even download these books on your preferred app and read them straight from your phone, as you can also find these free titles on the Google Play and Apple Books apps.

Which e-books are free?

Sourcing these free romance e-books is straightforward thanks to Alpharoll. All genres and heat levels of romance are featured and organized by heat level and subgenre, so you can head directly to what you want to read.

Is Stuff Your Kindle Day the same as Amazon Kindle Unlimited?

Everything you download on Stuff Your Kindle Day is yours to keep, and there's no limit on the number of books you can download. Stuff Your Kindle Day downloads don't count towards the 20 books per month that Amazon Kindle Unlimited subscribers can borrow, so don't hold back.

Shop Stuff Your Kindle Day deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle (16GB) + 3 Months of Kindle Unlimited $109.99 at Amazon
$145.96 Save $35.97 Get Deal Why we like it

These portable and lightweight e-readers help you take your entire library on the go. With weeks of battery life and an anti-glare display, you can read anywhere and anytime with the Kindle. They start at $109.99, a great price for those on a budget, but if you want to save even more, you can get three months of Kindle Unlimited absolutely free during Stuff Your Kindle Day.

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Featured Video For You Kindle Paperwhite vs. Kobo Clara Colour: Which one is better?

How to watch Ireland vs. Argentina online for free

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Live stream Ireland vs. Argentina in the Autumn Nations Series for free on Virgin Media Player. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Ireland desperately wanted to start the Autumn Nations Series with a win, but the All Blacks had other ideas. There are no easy games at this time of year, and it's Argentina that visit next. It's going to be a real battle between two physical sides. Can Ireland bounce back? Or will the Pumas make it two defeats from two for the Irish?

If you want to watch Ireland vs. Argentina in the Autumn Nations Series from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Ireland vs. Argentina?

Ireland vs. Argentina in the Autumn Nations Series kicks off at 8:10 p.m. GMT on Nov. 15. This fixture takes place at the Aviva Stadium.

How to watch Ireland vs. Argentina for free

Ireland vs. Argentina is available to live stream for free on Virgin Media Player in Ireland.

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock Virgin Media Player. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Ireland, meaning you can unblock Virgin Media Player to stream the Autumn Nations Series for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Ireland vs. Argentina for free by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Ireland

  4. Visit Virgin Media Player

  5. Watch Ireland vs. Argentina for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of the Autumn Nations Series without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Ireland vs. Argentina (plus more Autumn Nations Series fixtures) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Virgin Media Player?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Virgin Media Player, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Ireland

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Ireland vs. Argentina in the Autumn Nations Series for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of Barcelona online for free

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Watch the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of Barcelona for free on ServusTV. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There's only one MotoGP race left this season, and Jorge Martín leads the standings with a 24-point advantage over defending champion Francesco Bagnaia. The good news for fans is that it is possible to live stream this finale from anywhere in the world.

If you're interested in watching the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of Barcelona for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of Barcelona?

The MotoGP Grand Prix of Barcelona takes place at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of Barcelona race starts at 8 a.m. ET on Nov. 17.

How to watch the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of Barcelona for free

Every MotoGP 2024 race is available to live stream for free on ServusTV in Austria.

If you're abroad for the next race, you might need to use a VPN to unblock ServusTV. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Austria, meaning you can bypass geo-restrictions to access ServusTV from anywhere in the world.

Unblock ServusTV by following this simple process:

  1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Austria

  4. Connect to ServusTV

  5. Watch MotoGP for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access MotoGP live streams without fully committing with your cash. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of Barcelona before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for MotoGP?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking ServusTV, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Austria

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is protected

  • Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Watch the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of Barcelona for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Uruguay vs. Colombia in World Cup Qualifiers online for free

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Live stream Uruguay vs. Colombia in World Cup Qualifiers for free on SBS On Demand. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

World Cup Qualifiers are always tough, but in South America, there really are no easy games. 10 sides compete in a round-robin group stage, with the top six sides automatically qualifying for the showcase in 2026.

Uruguay and Colombia are both in a good position to qualify for the World Cup, but with only three points separating them in the standings, the upcoming matchup is going to be a real battle. If you want to watch Uruguay vs. Colombia in World Cup Qualifiers for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Uruguay vs. Colombia?

Uruguay vs. Colombia in World Cup Qualifiers kicks off at 7 p.m. ET on Nov. 15. This fixture takes place at the Estadio Centenario.

How to watch Uruguay vs. Colombia for free

Uruguay vs. Colombia in World Cup Qualifiers is available to live stream for free on SBS On Demand in Australia.

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock SBS On Demand. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can access free live streams on SBS On Demand from anywhere in the world.

Access a free live stream of Uruguay vs. Colombia by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Australia

  4. Visit SBS On Demand

  5. Stream Uruguay vs. Colombia for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Uruguay vs. Colombia in World Cup Qualifiers without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select World Cup Qualifiers before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for SBS On Demand?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on SBS On Demand, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Australia

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Stream Uruguay vs. Colombia in World Cup Qualifiers for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Peru vs. Chile in World Cup Qualifiers online for free

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Live stream Peru vs. Chile in World Cup Qualifiers for free on SBS On Demand. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The South American World Cup Qualifiers are always fierce, with each team playing each other twice in a home-and-away round-robin format. There aren't any weak teams in the group of 10, so every game is absolutely massive.

The next fixture sees Peru take on Chile. Both sides have really struggled so far, with Chile a point behind Peru in last place. Still, there is plenty of time to turn things around.

If you want to watch Peru vs. Chile in World Cup Qualifiers for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Peru vs. Chile?

Peru vs. Chile in World Cup Qualifiers kicks off at 8:30 p.m. ET on Nov. 15. This fixture takes place at the Estadio Monumental.

How to watch Peru vs. Chile for free

Peru vs. Chile in World Cup Qualifiers is available to live stream for free on SBS On Demand in Australia.

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock SBS On Demand. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can access free live streams on SBS On Demand from anywhere in the world.

Access a free live stream of Peru vs. Chile by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Australia

  4. Visit SBS On Demand

  5. Stream Peru vs. Chile for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Peru vs. Chile in World Cup Qualifiers without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select World Cup Qualifiers before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for SBS On Demand?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on SBS On Demand, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Australia

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Stream Peru vs. Chile in World Cup Qualifiers for free with ExpressVPN.

6 gadgets to help keep your home clean, from robot vacuums to electric scrubbers

Thu, 11/14/2024 - 20:27

Having a clean and tidy home is a joy. Cleaning and tidying said home is less of a joy. Though there are some elevated beings among us who find scrubbing their stovetop a meditative experience, most people consider such tasks exhausting, reviled chores only undertaken with reluctance.

Fortunately, the steady march of technological advancement continues to lighten the burden of domestic labour. The popularisation of washing machines and dishwashers revolutionised everyday chores in the '50s, freeing up precious time for millions of people. New devices are now furthering the cause, seeking to become the next ubiquitous household cleaning essential.

Here are six gadgets to help keep your home clean with minimal effort.

SEE ALSO: How to clean your laptop screen Kärcher SC 3 EasyFix steam cleaner A powerful and versatile cleaning gadget. Credit: Mashable composite: Kärcher

Steam cleaners are severely underrated cleaning gadgets, sanitising surfaces and blasting away grime that would otherwise take extensive scrubbing to remove. If the grout in your bathroom is perpetually mouldy or you hate scouring your stovetop, you should seriously consider investing in a steam cleaner.

The Kärcher SC 3 EasyFix steam cleaner is a versatile household steam cleaner which heats up in less than a minute, so you can quickly get to cleaning before your motivation evaporates. Relatively compact at around 14 inches long, the SC 3 EasyFix has a 33 oz (1L) water tank which can easily be topped up even during operation, no stopping and depressurising required. Its replaceable descaling cartridge removes limescale from the water to lengthen the steam cleaner's lifespan as well.

The SC 3 EasyFix comes bundled with several attachments and accessories, including a floor nozzle, cleaning cloth, and extension tubes so you can steam clean your floor without getting on all fours. Kärcher also has various other accessories to expand your unit's versatility, such as a carpet glider, handy replacement brush sets, and a power nozzle for reaching into narrow areas.

It isn't entirely magic — you will still have to scrub a little. But scrubbing with a steam cleaner as opposed to without one is like pushing a tricycle instead of a truck.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kärcher Kärcher SC 3 EasyFix steam cleaner $202.79 at Amazon
$259.99 Save $57.20 Shop Now Dremel Versa electric scrubber Scrubbing made way easier. Credit: Dremel

Keeping a home clean unfortunately often necessitates scrubbing for hours on end until your fingers are permanently, painfully stuck in a clawed position. The Dremel Versa is an electric scrubbing device designed to make this chore much easier, replacing your elbow grease with 2,200 RPM.

The Versa has a slew of attachments available to suit a variety of scrubbing needs, whether you want to clean steel, grout, or glass. While its brushes screw in, the sponges adhere to the Versa via a Velcro-like pad, keeping them firmly attached while also making them ridiculously easy to swap out.

Dremel has a handy chart to help you determine the appropriate sponge for a variety of tasks, though it's still fairly nerve-wracking at first. As someone who has inadvertently scratched shower glass with a drill-powered scrubbing brush, you don't want to be applying such power unless you're absolutely sure you have the right attachment. You should consider wearing hearing protection as well, especially if you're using the Dremel Versa in an enclosed space such as a shower. After all, it is essentially a drill.

Though once you've figured it out, the Dremel Versa can go a long way to making home upkeep less taxing.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dremel Dremel Versa electric scrubber $54.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $5.00 Shop Now Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra robot vacuum A powerful tool when it comes to cleaning. Credit: Roborock

A decade ago robot vacuums were frequently considered novelties, more suitable as subjects of drunken shenanigans than reliable home helpers. They've developed significantly in the years since, evolving to the point where having a robot vacuum is actually a reasonable proposition. Roborock's S8 MaxV Ultra is the result of those years of technological advancement. 

Boasting 10,000 Pa of suction power, Roborock's flagship model does practically everything you could ask of a robot vacuum within the bounds of current technology — as well as a few things you probably wouldn't have thought to request. In addition to vacuuming and mopping, the S8 MaxV Ultra's docking station allows it to automatically wash its own microfibre mop pad, empty its dust bin, refill its water tank, and even top up its detergent. Using LiDAR and AI to identify obstacles and navigate your home, the S8 MaxV Ultra can respond to voice commands and even has a novel in-app feature for tracking down your pet, letting you observe your furry friend via its onboard camera.

SEE ALSO: The 4 best robot vacuums for carpet and rugs in 2024

The camera quality isn't much to write home about, but the S8 MaxV Ultra is a powerful tool when it comes to cleaning, which is its primary purpose anyway. The robot vacuum's stand out feature is it FlexiArm Design side brush, which reaches out to sweep up corners as well as areas under low furniture that might otherwise be missed. Its edge mop also ensures that you get a close clean along walls.

One caveat is that this handy robotic friend will set you back a pretty penny. The Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra is one of the most expensive robot vacuums currently on the market, meaning it will primarily appeal to those with a couple of thousand dollars to spend. But if you're sick of vacuuming and want a set-and-forget solution to keeping your floors clean, investing in a S8 MaxV Ultra might very well be worth it.

Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock. Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra robot vacuum at Amazon
Shop Now Coway Airmega 200M air purifier A good air purifier can be vital to the comfort of a home. Credit: Coway

As someone who lives in a fairly suburban area, I used to think air purifiers were largely unnecessary gadgets. Having now been through several dire bushfire seasons which smothered my home in smoke, I now know better.

Whether you're dealing with wildfire smoke or city smog, a good air purifier can be vital to the comfort of a home. After all, it's difficult to relax if you can't even get a lungful of good, clean air. The Coway Airmega 200M is a relatively unobtrusive workhorse that can maintain clean air in a 361 square foot area, whether you're binge-watching Netflix in your living room or optimising your sleep in your bedroom. The result is an environment that feels undeniably fresher and more peaceful.

The Airmega 200M has four stages of filtration: a pre-filter for larger particles such as hair and dust; a deodorisation filter to capture smells; a True HEPA filter for ultra fine particles like pollen, viruses, and germs; and a vital ioniser to catch any ultra fine particles the previous filters missed. 

Operating at a whisper-quiet volume, Coway's air purifier has a timer which can be set to one, four, or eight hours, as well as three different fan speeds. It also has an Eco Mode, which will save you energy by turning the fan off if the Airmega 200M doesn't detect pollution for half an hour, then turning it back on when it does.

Opens in a new window Credit: Coway Coway Airmega 200M air purifier at Amazon
Shop Now Bosch GlassVAC Solo Plus window vacuum A gadget that aims to simplify window washing. Credit: Bosch

Having an abundance of windows can make a home feel refreshing and bright, allowing in natural light to transform an otherwise gloomy space. Unfortunately, these benefits are significantly diminished if you can't keep said windows clean.

Bosch's GlassVAC Solo Plus window vacuum aims to simplify this chore, squeegeeing and sucking up liquids for a tidy, streak-free finish. Bundled with a spray bottle affixed to a microfibre cloth head, this handheld gadget is designed to clean windows, mirrors, shower screens, tiles, and other such surfaces. Just turn it on, squeegee as usual, and watch as dirty water collects in its 100mL tank instead of on your window sill. 

The vacuum isn't quite as effective when running the GlassVAC Solo Plus horizontally across surfaces as opposed to vertically, and it may not get every last drop. Depending on how wet your window was, you may still need to give the sill a quick wipe. Even so, the GlassVAC Solo Plus does an excellent job of substantially minimising mess, and is particularly handy when dealing with morning condensation on bedroom windows.

The Bosch's GlassVAC Solo Plus also doesn't make that grating squeaking sound that most standard squeegees do, which is an undeniable bonus.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bosch Bosch GlassVAC Solo Plus window vacuum at Amazon
Shop Now Tineco Floor One S7 Steam floor washer Making it actually enjoyable to mop regularly. Credit: Tineco

A significant obstacle to keeping a household clean is the sheer hassle of lugging out cumbersome cleaning equipment and hauling it from room to room. The Tineco Floor One S7 Steam floor washer offers the function of both a steam cleaner and a mop, paired with the convenience of an cordless upright vacuum so it's enjoyably easy to grab whenever needed. It also sucks up the water it uses for cleaning, keeping the chore neat while helping dry your floors much more quickly.

The Floor One S7 Steam's wet vacuum mode can be used for sucking up liquid messes as well as mopping, which is already very handy compared to sopping up dirty water with an analogue mop and bucket. However, floor washer also has two other modes: a regular steam mode for a sanitising clean of your floors, and a boosted steam mode to tackle more stubborn grime.

It only uses plain water as well, not needing any soaps or detergents to deliver a thorough clean. Watching the Floor One S7 Steam's transparent dirty water tank fill with opaque, grimy liquid is incredibly satisfying, and will likely have you itching to use the device whenever you can. The device also comes with a charging base and self-cleaning mode, so all you have to do is top up the clean water tank and pour out the dirty one.

The Tineco Floor One S7 Steam is only suitable on hard floors, and as with any steam cleaner you'll want to think twice before using it on wood (never steam unsealed wooden floors unless you want them warped). The standard wet vacuum function should be safe enough for wood though, especially since it leaves floors relatively dry. Just resist getting overeager and mopping too often.

Opens in a new window Credit: Tineco Tineco Floor One S7 Steam floor washer at Amazon
Shop Now

UPDATE: Nov. 15, 2024, 11:37 a.m. AEDT This article was originally published July 2024, and has since been updated in November 2024.

PSA: Your Twitter/X account is about to change forever

Thu, 11/14/2024 - 19:23

If you're on Twitter/X, you may have noticed a sudden stream of high-profile accounts heading for the exits. And no, it's not (just) about the election.

This exodus is thanks to a new Terms of Service document, which takes effect on November 15. Although the company isn't talking about it, the new ToS gives owner Elon Musk the right to use your tweets, photos and videos to train his AI bot, Grok.

The option to opt out of Grok training, something users currently have, may still exist in your settings the following day. But it also may not matter, legally speaking. Nothing about opting out is mentioned in the document you are required to sign. And it doesn't appear to make a difference if your account is locked: So far as this ToS is concerned, Grok gets to feed on it anyway.

Oh yes, and following free speech is no longer free. You'll be on the hook for $15,000 in damages if your account accesses more than a million tweets a day. Not even the hardest of hardcore Twitter junkies will reach that number, but many researchers do. For anyone who tracks hate speech on X, this will have a chilling effect. The Knight Institute for the First Amendment at Columbia University calls it a "disturbing move" for a supposed free-speech advocate.

Disagree with anything in this document, or any other changes going forward? According to the ToS, your only legal recourse is to fight the world's richest man in one court in rural Texas, many miles from X HQ in Austin. This happens to be a court where a judge who may still own a pile of Tesla stock has already given Musk favorable rulings.

Breaking up with your X

Don't want Elon Musk to feed your feed to his pet AI? There is, alas, only one way out of it now: delete your account.

That's a drastic and highly emotive step to take, given all the hundreds or thousands of tweets that may be in there. You can download an archive of your tweets by following these steps, but the final step involves waiting for X to prepare the archive. Some users with a long history of tweets, who have downloaded this archive before, are reporting that the preparation is taking longer this time.

This may not be a deliberate delay past the November 15 deadline, as some suggest; it may just be that the system is backed up with download requests.

You may have good reason for staying, of course — one being to ensure that no malicious actor grabs your handle and impersonates you. If you fear the removal of the block feature, which is also rolling out after November 15, you can lock your account down to ensure only your followers will see your tweets.

Bottom line — there's no one right way to leave. Jaime Lee Curtis posted a screenshot of her X deactivation on Instagram, along with the serenity prayer. Don Lemon left a simple statement on the service with his reasoning: the Terms of Service change. The Guardian wrote an article explaining that its decision to no longer post on X had been in the works for a while. And after the Center For Countering Digital Hate posted its final tweets, it deleted the account.

And if you don't think any of this matters and you're happy to stay on X? Well, good luck dealing with the increasingly controlling Musk regime.

For those about to Grok, we salute you.

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